Using artificial intelligence to analyze patient photos for chronic graft-versus-host disease

Artificial intelligence to estimate extent of cGVHD from patient photos

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11081025

This study is working on a smart computer program that can help patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) by analyzing photos of their skin redness, making it easier and more affordable for them to get accurate assessments without always needing to see a doctor.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081025 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop and validate an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can accurately assess skin erythema, a key biomarker for chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), from photographs taken by patients. By leveraging a large database of over 11,000 images from diverse patient populations, the study seeks to create a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective tool for evaluating cGVHD, which is a significant complication following stem cell transplants. The AI technology will be tested against expert dermatologist assessments to ensure its accuracy and effectiveness in real-world settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and are experiencing symptoms of chronic graft-versus-host disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone stem cell transplantation or do not exhibit symptoms of chronic graft-versus-host disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accurate and accessible method for monitoring cGVHD, leading to improved patient outcomes and treatment validation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using AI for medical assessments, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in the evaluation of cGVHD.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.